ACCESS Language Functions 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A student says, 'Could you explain that again, please?' What language function is being used?
- Requesting clarification (Correct answer)
- Giving an opinion
- Making a complaint
- Expressing certainty
Correct answer: Requesting clarification
Asking someone to explain something again is the language function of requesting clarification.
Question 2: Which sentence best expresses the language function of making a suggestion?
- I finished my homework.
- You should try studying in the library. (Correct answer)
- I don't like loud music.
- She went to the store yesterday.
Correct answer: You should try studying in the library.
Using 'should' to recommend an action is a common way to make a suggestion.
Question 3: A student says, 'I'm not sure I agree with that idea.' What language function does this represent?
- Agreeing politely
- Expressing disagreement (Correct answer)
- Asking for permission
- Describing a sequence
Correct answer: Expressing disagreement
Saying you are 'not sure you agree' is a polite way to express disagreement.
Question 4: Which phrase is most appropriate for introducing a contrasting idea in academic writing?
- In addition,
- For example,
- On the other hand, (Correct answer)
- As a result,
Correct answer: On the other hand,
'On the other hand' signals a contrast between two ideas, which is its function in discourse.
Question 5: A teacher says, 'First, read the passage. Then, answer the questions.' What language function is demonstrated?
- Giving instructions in sequence (Correct answer)
- Expressing an opinion
- Predicting an outcome
- Complimenting a student
Correct answer: Giving instructions in sequence
Using 'first' and 'then' to direct actions in order demonstrates the language function of sequencing instructions.
Question 6: Which sentence uses the language function of expressing ability?
- She must finish her report.
- He can speak three languages fluently. (Correct answer)
- They should arrive by noon.
- We ought to recycle more.
Correct answer: He can speak three languages fluently.
The modal verb 'can' is used to express that someone has the ability to do something.
Question 7: A student writes, 'The experiment failed because the temperature was too high.' What language function does 'because' signal?
- Comparison
- Cause and effect (Correct answer)
- Sequence
- Contrast
Correct answer: Cause and effect
'Because' connects a result to its reason, expressing a cause-and-effect relationship.
ACCESS Language Functions 2
A student says, 'Could you explain that again, please?' What language function is being used?